Michigan City council backs state bills to restrict marijuana advertising near schools; vote 7-0-1

The Michigan City Common Council approved a resolution supporting Indiana Senate Bill 166 and House Bill 1026, which would prohibit marijuana advertising within 1,000 feet of school property, playgrounds, youth program centers, public parks, public libraries and regular routes of public school buses. The council vote was recorded as seven in favor and one abstention.

Councilman Prince Belinski introduced the resolution and read its provisions aloud, noting concerns that billboards and mailed advertising for dispensaries across the Michigan state line have reached Michigan City residents. The resolution states the city supports the cited state bills and asks the city clerk to forward copies to members of the relevant legislative committees.

Public commenters and council members debated legal scope and enforcement. Scott Mellen, a resident who addressed the council, cautioned about First Amendment and private-property limitations on regulating advertising and suggested the city wait for state action if statewide restrictions are under consideration. Councilman Dabney clarified the council was approving a resolution expressing support for state legislation and not passing a local ordinance with penalties.

Councilwoman Lee said she supported the resolution because marijuana remains illegal in Indiana and she expressed concern about normalization of the product around students; Councilman Coulter said the proposed restrictions would align advertising rules for marijuana with existing controls on tobacco and alcohol. Councilwoman Moldenhauer registered an abstention during the roll call.

The motion to adopt the resolution was made by Dr. Kaur and seconded by Councilman Dabney; the clerk recorded seven in favor and one abstention. The resolution directs the clerk to forward the council’s support to members of the cited legislative committees.